JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Background:

Patient reported outcomes (PROs) can be defined as any report of a patient’s health taken directly from the patient. Routine collection of PRO data has been shown to offer potential benefits to patient-doctor communication. Electronic forms of PRO measures could be more beneficial in comparison to traditional PRO measures in obtaining PROs from patients. It is currently unclear whether routine collection of electronic PRO data could result in better outcomes for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) patients.

Objective:

Objective:

This study aims to explore the perspective of the patients and surgeons on the usage of electronic PRO measures. Based on prior research, technical skill and experience level of the surgeon, long-term quality of life, patient involvement in decision-making, communication skills of the surgeon, cleanliness of the ward environment, and standards of nursing care are identified to be the most important factors for the patients.

Methods:

Methods:

This is a mixed-methods prospective study that will collect both quantitative (survey) and qualitative (interview) data. It has two components. The first involves the distribution of an electronic pre-survey to elective LC patients within 48 hours of their surgery (n=80). This survey will explore the perspective of patients regarding the procedure, hospital experience, long-term outcomes and the perceived value of using PRO measures. These patients will then be followed up with after 1 year and given the post-survey. The second component involves the distribution of the same survey and the completion of structured interviews with general surgeons (n=10). The survey will ascertain what PROs from the participants are most useful for the surgeons and the interviews will focus on how the surgeons view routine PRO collection. Convenience sampling will be used. Surveys will be distributed through Qualtrics, and interviews will be completed on Microsoft TeamsTM.

Results:

Results:

Data collection began on February 14th, 2023. As of the 12th of February 2024, 71/80 have been given the pre-survey. The follow up with the patients and the general surgeon components have not begun. The expected completion date of this study is in April 2025.

Conclusions:

Conclusion: Overall, this study will investigate the potential of electronic PRO collection to offer value for patients and general surgeons. This approach will ensure that patient care is investigated in a multi-faceted way, giving patient-centric guidance to surgeons in their approach for care.